The Bloomsburg Area YMCA presents the 10th annual New Years Eve 5K tonight. The walk/run takes off at 7:00 PM from the YMCA.

The Saturday morning free trains program at Christ Memorial Episcopal Church is open today from 10:00 am to noon. They’ll feature their brand new ‘talking train’ the brand new Amtrak “Pennsylvanian.” The church is located at the corner of Pine and East Market Streets in Danville.

On Monday the free Wheelchair Engineers train program will be open at the Columbia Mall from 3:00 to 5:00 pm. Master Craftsman Earl Wagner is helping children and adults enlarge the layout.

On Tuesday the Bloomsburg Public Library will host Come Knit With Me, a gathering for both novice and experienced knitters. Socrates Café will also be held at the library on Tuesday at 6:30 PM. This month’s discussion topic is “What Shall We Talk About in 2011.” The library is located on Market Street in Bloomsburg.

The Central Pennsylvania Historic Preservation group is holding a snowman quilt raffle. Tickets are $2.00 each or three for $5.00. The drawing is coming up on January 19th. For tickets call 356-7346.

The Central Columbia baseball coaches and players will offer at 10-week baseball clinic on Sundays in January, February, and March. Registration deadline is coming up on Wednesday.

The Bloomsburg Public Library invites you out to say goodbye to Christmas on Thursday at the annual twelfth night program. There will be stories, live music, and a craft project. Your good listeners ages three and up are invited to drop by at 6:30 PM.

And from the WHLM Future File, the Columbia County United Way Trash to Treasure sale is coming on Saturday January 21st from 9:00 am to noon at Bloomsburg University.

An athletic trainer at Warrior Run High School... in Northumberland County... is in trouble with the law. Our news partner Channel 16 / WNEP – TV is reporting 27 – year old Matthew Godfrey is accused of having sexual contact with two underage girls... now 17 and 18. The alleged incidents taking place between August of 2010... through last month at Godfrey's home and on Warrior Run school property. Godfrey is in the Northumberland County Jail in lieu of $75,000 bond... and faces a preliminary hearing next Wednesday.

Sears / K-Mart

It appears Sears and K-Mart stores in our area will not be closed due to the financial trouble of their parent company. Not on the list of 79 stores of 120 to be closed is the Sears store in the Columbia Mall in Buckhorn... and the K-Mart on West Front Street in Berwick. Only two stores will be closed in PA... according to the preliminary list... and they're in the Philadelphia area. No word when the second phase of closings will be announced by Sears Holdings.

Proposed Flood Wall

Following the Lee floods of last September... a lot of questions were being asked about a proposed flood wall along Fishing Creek... designed to protect the west end of Bloomsburg. State Representative David Millard of Mt. Pleasant Township... appearing on the Thursday edition of the WHLM Morning Buzz... says there could be action on the issue soon now that a package of flood related bills have passed from the State Senate to the State House. Representative Millard says if the federal government doesn't come through with the money for a flood wall... a bond issue it possible to raise the cash for the proposed project.

YMCA Run / Walk

Everything is in place for Saturday night's 10th annual YMCA Run / Walk through the streets of Bloomsburg. The “Y's” Sherice Quick says more than 400 participants are expected to take part in the event... and this year timing and scoring will be done electronically. More than 300 people are already registered... and Ms. Quick says a huge influx of participants are expected to sign up when late registration begins Saturday afternoon at 5 O'clock.

Luzerne County Budget

Luzerne County Commissioners voted three to nothing on Thursday as they adopted their $121 – million budget for the 2012 fiscal year. The spending plan is about 3.5 - million less than last year. It contains no property tax increases... but it appears up to sixty county employees could be let go. That decision will be left up to the eleven county council members who are the first to begin governing under a home – rule charter starting next week.

Torso Folo

Authorities in the Poconos are still scratching their heads over the discovery of a torso in Monroe County earlier this week. Despite an autopsy... authorities still don't know who the man is... however, they have determined he is between 45 and 60 years of age. The headless and limbless torso was found... stuffed in a trash bag found along Route 191 in Paradise township.

PennDOT

Repairs of flood damaged roads continues across Central and Northeast Pennsylvania. PennDOT's Rick Mason says only five roads in the agency's Montoursville region remain out of service. In Columbia County... bridge removal and eventual construction is underway on White's Church Road in Mt. Pleasant Township. The bridge is at Mt. Pleasant and Back Branch Road. No word when that project will be wrapped up.

Ski Areas

The company which has leased the Jack Frost and the Big Boulder Ski areas since 2005... have finally purchased the two properties. Peak Resorts, incorporated based in St. Louis says the transaction is worth $9 – million dollars. A company spokesman says the resorts are attractive since they're located near major metropolitan areas.

WHLM Sports

Bloomsburg University

It's been a great season so far for both the Bloomsburg University men's and women's basketball teams... and both are back in action on the road Friday afternoon. The women will take a 9 and 2 record into their game at Georgian Court in Lakewood, New Jersey... and the men take an 8 and 2 record into their game at Chestnut Hill College in Philadelphia. You can hear all the action starting with the pregame show to the women's game at 12:40 on News Radio 930, 94.7, 104.3... as well as Berwick's 1280 and www.whlm.com.

High School Boys Basketball

In boys' high school basketball Thursday night, in the championship game of the Knights of Columbus Tournament in Shamokin, it was Shamokin defeating Southern Columbia 50 to 47.

Holiday Tournament

In the consolation game of the Holiday River Tournament Mifflin County getting by Berwick 55 to 30.

High School Girls Basketball

In girls' basketball, in the consolation game of the Knights of Columbus Tournament Thursday night... Southern Columbia getting by Sunbury Christian 41 to 16.

College Bowl Games

There was college football bowl action on Thursday... as Florida State defeated Notre Dame 18 to 14 in the Champs Sports Bowl in Orlando. In San Antonio... in the Alamo Bowl... Baylor getting by Washington 67 to 56 in the highest-scoring regulation bowl game in history.

Officials at the Geisinger Medical Center in Danville have announced... that beginning February 1st... they will no longer hire job applicants who use tobacco products. That includes... cigarettes... cigars... chewing or smokeless tobacco. A Geisinger spokesman says the health care system is falling in line with similar organizations around the country. During the hiring process... a check for nicotine use will be preformed during routine drug screening. Current employees are not affected by the February 1st ban... but are encouraged to sign up for a smoking cessation program.

BU Students

Three Bloomsburg University field hockey players will face trial in the brutal beating of an undergraduate student this past October. The Press – Enterprise is reporting in Thursday's edition... 21 – year old Lauren McGinley... along with Alexis Weber and Nicole Bruce... both 20... are facing assault and harassment charges in the alleged beating of undergraduate student Ashley Carsia. That determination following a hearing Wednesday before District Justice Russell Lawton. The beating was the result of Carsia dancing with Bruce's boyfriend. The trio remains free on $5,000 bail.

United Water / Flood

As we roll into a new year in a couple of days... for many of us it's a time of reflection... and that means the Lee floods of September. That includes United Water... the supplier of drinking water to Bloomsburg. Their plant on Irondale Road was inundated... and the utility's Bob Manbeck says they now may be looking at building a new filtration plant at a cost estimated at $16 – million.

Identities Revealed

We now know the names of the two people who died in that Jeep accident over the weekend in Coal Township. Northumberland County Coroner James Kelley said 38 – year old David Dascani and 24 – year old Kelley Gusick... both of Shamokin... died when carbon monoxide from the Jeep's exhaust system made it's way into the driver's compartment after getting stuck in a creek. Kelley is ruling the death of the pair accidental... since there were no signs of foul play.

Attorney in Trouble

A 38 – year old attorney from Butler Township near Hazleton is facing child corruption charges. Robert Zanicky was arraigned Wednesday on two counts of corruption of minors. The incident involves 16 and 17 – year old girls he met at a Wilkes – Barre restaurant and eventually lured them... separately... to a hotel where he allegedly made sexual advances to one... and has sex with the second. Zanicky has denied the charges.

Prison Term

One of the kingpins in the so – called Kids – for – cash scheme is now in a minimum-security security federal prison camp in the Florida Panhandle. Robert Powell began serving his 18 – month sentence earlier this week. Powell testified he gave two former Luzerne County Judges $770,000 to place juveniles in a for – profit detention center he at one time owned. For their part... former Judges Mark Ciavarella and Michael Conahan are now serving prison time.

The State Department of Labor and Industry says the unemployment rate across northeastern Pennsylvania remains at 9.2% during November... pretty much the same as it was in October. The area includes Columbia and Montour Counties. Statewide... unemployment decreased two tenths of a percent down to 7.9%.

Montour Budget

The Montour County Commission has adopted their $7.8 million dollar 2012 budget. To make ends meet... property owners will see an increase of roughly $10.00 per $100,000 of assessed valuation. Also... some positions won't be filled and hours of current employees will be reduced. Overall there will be an estimated shortfall of about $210,000 in the spending plan.

Project Keystone

Still stressed out over the September flooding which greatly effected Columbia and Montour County's... many are. That has led to the Federal Emergency Management Agency to establish Project Keystone through the P-A Department of Welfare for folks still traumatized by the flood. Both governmental entities have established a crisis counseling hotline... up and running 24 / 7... toll free at 885-789–7890.

Flood Protection

A major flood control project may soon get underway in Mt. Carmel... in Northumberland County. After being on the back burner since the mid – 80's plans and most of the financing is in place to keep Shamokin Creek in check. The waterway flows over it's banks during times of heavy rains. $13.5 - million dollars is already in place for the project. The Borough of Mt. Carmel has raised $500,000 and SEDA – COG's Steve Kusheloff says the organization is working with local lawmakers to get the remaining half – million dollars. Kusheloff says in the past fourteen months... 230 households have been effected by the rising Shamokin Creek whenever rainfall is heavy.

Coal Twp Accident

Coal Township police are continuing their investigation into the death of a man and woman found Tuesday afternoon in Northumberland County. Authorities say the couple died when the Jeep they were in slid off Mountain Creek Road... and ended up in a stream near Big Mountain Road. Northumberland County Coroner James Kelley has not released the names... but says the deaths are not suspicious.

Monroe Body

Police in Monroe County want to know the identity of a torso wrapped in a couple of garbage bags... and discovered Tuesday afternoon along route 191 in Paradise Township. They also want to know how and why the man died. He is described as between 45 to 60 – years of age. It's not known how long the remains were there... so an autopsy is planned this week at the Lehigh Valley Hospital.

Sentence

The man convicted of killing his girlfriend back in 2009... has been sentenced to 12 to 40 years in state prison. Robert Zola of Mountaintop heard the sentence imposed by Luzerne County Judge Joseph Cosgrove. A jury convicted Zola in October of 3rd degree murder in the stabbing death of Rosemarie Cave inside her Plymouth home.

Turnpike Tolls

If you use either the Pennsylvania Turnpike or the Northeast Extension... be prepared to dig deeper into your pocket to pay the cash toll. They're going up on Sunday... but if you have an E-Z pass... those tolls remain the same. The extra cash is expected to generate money to help pay off bonds that fund highway improvements and mass transit across the state.

PSP Stats

State Police investigated five fatal crashes over the Christmas holiday weekend. The PSP says two of the five fatal accidents were alcohol related... and none of the victims wore seat belts. Troopers arrested 200 people suspected of driving under the influence. 1,300 drivers were cited for speeding... 174 for not buckling up... and 17 for not having their kids properly restrained.

In WHLM Sports

Boys Basketball

In boys high school basketball last night, it was Weatherly over Millville 39 to 28...

In the Milton Holiday tournament,

Lewisburg defeated Bloomsburg 62 to 56...

Girls Basketball

In girls basketball, in the Judy Knorr Tournament in Berwick the Bulldogs getting by Bethlehem Freedom 46 to 32. Tonight... Berwick plays Selinsgrove for the tournament championship

Basketball Tournaments

Two tournaments begin Wednesday night. In the Holiday River Tourney at Selinsgrove, the Berwick boys play Shikellamy. In the Knights of Columbus tournament in Shamokin, both the Southern Columbia boys and girls teams play Lourdes Regional.

College Bowl Games

In college football bowl games yesterday, it was Purdue over Western Michigan 37 to 32... and North Carolina State getting by Louisville 31 to 24.

It's going to be some time before we see a new Kidsburg constructed in the Bloomsburg Town Park. The area was ravaged by September flooding... and now the Town Park Association has received permission from town council to demolish it to make room for Kidsburg 2.0. Association President Chuck Wagner says demolition could take place as early as spring, but it may be 18 months to two years before we see a new Kidsburg rise from the ground.

YMCA Walk / Run

The Bloomsburg YMCA on 7th street is gearing up for Saturday night's 5K Run / Walk through the streets of the town. The “Y” coming up with a package for dinner at the Moose Exchange.... as well as overnighting at the Hampton Inn near Lightstreet. The 10th annual 5K Run / Walk begins at 7 O'clock at the “Y.” For more information either go to their website... or give the “Y” a call.

Drums Fire

Still no word as to what caused a fire in the 400 block of Route 309 near Drums... in Butler Township late Sunday night. The fire caused extensive damage to a two story structure. No one was at home at the time of the blaze. A state police fire marshal is conducting the investigation.

Freeland Fire

In Freeland.... near Hazleton in Luzerne County... seven people are homeless as the result of a Christmas night fire in a double block home on Alvin Street. All are receiving help from the American Red Cross... as a fire marshal tries to determine the cause of the Sunday night fire.

Fourth Arrest

A fourth person has been arrested in connection with the assault on three Penn State Schuylkill students earlier this month. Leonard Stubbs of Philadelphia was taken into custody for his alleged part on a home invasion and robbery at student housing in early December. Three others were captured within days of the attack. All are in the Schuylkill County jail.

State Parks

For those of us who enjoy winter weather... Pennsylvania's state parks and forests are waiting for you. State parks and forests remain open for business... and for snowmobilers.. all that is needed is some snow and the trails will be good to go. Other options include riding ATVs, cross-country skiing at several state parks, along with late-season hunting and ice fishing. Keep in mind that trail maps have been updated to reflect changes to gas operations and recent storm damage. You can get the maps and information by going to the DCNR web site.

Young Drivers

Starting Tuesday... some new rules take effect across the state affecting young drivers. The law includes increased on-the-road training... permits traffic stops for seat belt violations... and places limits on the number of passengers under the age of 18 that may be in the car. The aim is increasing safety for young drivers.

Gas Prices

The price of self – serve, unleaded regular gas across northeastern Pennsylvania has remained steady throughout the Christmas holiday weekend. The Triple – A fuel gauge report out Tuesday shows gas is averaging $3.28 a gallon. That was the same price as Monday.... and the same as a week ago... but down five cents from a month ago. The Triple - A says travel over the holiday weekend was up nationwide by at least 1% despite the fact that gas is up 28 – cents over a year ago.

In WHLM Sports...

Basketball Tournament

There are a number of high school basketball tournaments in the area this holiday season. In girls basketball Tuesday night... in the Judy Knorr Tournament in Berwick, Central Columbia plays Selinsgrove at 6 O'clock. At 7:30, Berwick plays Bethlehem Freedom. The consolation and championship games will be played Wednesday night.

College Football

In college football Monday, in the Independence Bowl in Shreveport, Louisiana, it was Missouri downing North Carolina 41 to 24...

Monday Night Football

New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees has set the NFL mark for yards passing in a season.... breaking a record that Dan Marino has held for three decades. It happened as New Orleans clinched the NFC South title with a 45 to 16 victory over the Atlanta Falcons Monday night.

Pennsylvania State Police could be facing budget cuts in the 2012 – 2013 fiscal year... as much as five percent... and that could lead to the layoff of between 400 and 500 state troopers. That word contained in a memo circulating among lawmakers in Harrisburg as Governor Corbett's staff prepares a proposed budget. State Representative David Millard of Mt. Pleasant Township doesn't like what he sees and hears since many small communities without police protection rely on PSP services. The memo says the layoffs would be the worst case scenario... as well as eliminating trooper classes... and shutting down some barracks if they don't get the $900 – million requested for next year.

Central / Bloomsburg

The possibility of sharing services... or even consolidation between the Bloomsburg School District and Central Columbia will take center stage the next six months or so. A committee will look into it.

Appearing on a recent edition of WHLM's Morning Buzz... Bloomsburg superintendent Dr. Cos Curry outside suggestions are taken into consideration. Two main reasons for shared services or consolidation... Central must decide what to do with their 50 – year old High School on Old Berwick Road... and Bloomsburg Middle and Senior High School is constantly being threatened by the Susquehanna River during high water events.

DUI

Thinking about drinking and driving over the New Years Holiday weekend..... the thought shouldn't cross through your mind. It could cost you big bucks if you get cost.... and George Geisler of the P-A DUI Association says any drug use on top of a drunk driving arrest will bring the penalty to it's maximum. And Geisler says if you plan to do a bit of imbibing this coming weekend... be sure to have a designated driver.

Vandalism

State Police at Bloomsburg are trying to find the person responsible for the vandalism of mailboxes in Pine Township. Troopers say the incident happened Christmas Eve along Pine Tree Road and Cherry Hollow road sometime between 8 and 10 O'clock. 57 – year old John Raby and 67 – year old Edward Beagle telling police someone damaged their mailboxes. If you have information about the incidents... call State Police at Bloomsburg.

Drums Fire

The investigation is underway into a Sunday night fire which which destroyed a home just off Route 309... near Drums... in Luzerne County. The half – double home was located in the 400 block of Route 309... but it's believed no was was living there. It took firefighters from a dozen different departments about an hour to get the flames under control. The investigation will be undertaken by a State Police fire marshal.

Rails to Trails

The Susquehanna Warrior Trail Council has received a $321,000 state grant... the money to be earmarked to extend a rail to trail area in Luzerne County by three miles. The trail currently runs from PPL's Susquehanna Riverlands... to the Garden Drive – In Theater near Hunlock Creek. The trail will be extend another three miles into West Nanticoke... as well as paving a portion near a salvage yard on what used to be the right of way of the former Erie – Lackawanna Railroad Bloomsburg line.

Federal Grants

Two northeastern Pennsylvania fire departments are in line to receive an estimated $73,000 in federal grants. Congressman Lou Barletta of Hazleton says the Wilkes – Barre City Fire Department will get $44,000 for new breathing systems used by firefighters who enter smokey buildings. Barletta adds that the Hauto Volunteer Fire Department in Nesquehoning... in Carbon County will get nearly $29,000 to upgrade their radio system. The money coming from FEMA's Assistance to Firefighters Grants program.

In WHLM Sports...

NBA

The lockout-delayed NBA regular season opened Sunday. The New York Knicks beat the Boston Celtics 106 – 104. The defending champion Dallas Mavericks lost at home to the Miami Heat 105 - 94 and the Chicago Bulls beat the Lakers in Los Angles 88 - 87

NFL Sunday

In the NFL last night... it was the Green Bay Packers defeated the Chicago Bears 35 to 21...

Coming up at 6 O'clock on the WHLM Morning Buzz... We'll bring you up to speed on the State of Pennsylvania's budget crunch. State Representative David Millard addresses the issue of the State Police cutting services... and how that could hurt small communities that do no have any police presence. Also... the dust has settled dealing with the issue of proposed shared services or outright consolidation between the Bloomsburg Area and Central Columbia School Districts. Bobby Joe will be along with the latest Buzz worthy news... plus sports and weather all part of the WHLM Morning Buzz starting at 6 O'clock on Newsradio 930... 94.7 and 104.3... as well as Berwick's 1280 and www.whlm.com.

Tickets are on sale to see Twelve Twenty-Four perform at Southern Columbia High School on Monday at 7:00 PM. The band is a Trans-Siberian Orchestra tribute band. Tickets are $18.00 at the door.

The Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble will wrap up their performance of “Holiday Memories” next weekend. Your next and last chance to check out the show is next Thursday and Friday at 7:30 PM. www.bte.org

The Fishing Creek Players will hold auditions and a production meeting for their upcoming production of “The Snow Queen.” The meeting and first auditions will be held next Wednesday at the Northern Columbia Community and Cultural Center located in Benton. Auditions for children under 12 will be next Thursday. For additional information call 925-0163.

The Central Pennsylvania Historic Preservations are holding a snowman quilt raffle. Tickets are $2.00 each or 3 to $5.00. The drawing will be held January 19th. Call 356-7346 to purchase tickets.

The Bloomsburg Area YMCA presents their 10th annual New Year’s Eve 5K on Saturday December 31st. The walk/run takes off at 7:00 PM from the YMCA. For more information or to register contact the Bloomsburg Y at 784-0188.

The Animal Resource Center is at the Columbia Mall for gift wrapping. Your donations will benefit their no-kill animal shelter.

The Saturday trains model-railroad program at Christ Memorial Episcopal Church in Danville is having a free public Christmas party today from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. The church is located at the corner of Pine and East Market Streets in Danville.

We will broadcast the Bethany United Methodist Christmas Eve service live tonight at 7:00 PM, and the Wesley United Methodist Christmas Eve service live at 11:00 pm. You can hear both on News Radio 930, 94.7, 104.3, Berwick’s 1280 and WHLM.com.

Tickets are on sale to see Twelve Twenty-Four perform at Southern Columbia High School on Monday at 7:00 PM. The band is a Trans-Siberian Orchestra tribute band. Tickets are $18.00 at the door.

The Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble will wrap up their performance of “Holiday Memories” next weekend. Your next and last chance to check out the show is next Thursday and Friday at 7:30 PM. www.bte.org

The Fishing Creek Players will hold auditions and a production meeting for their upcoming production of “The Snow Queen.” The meeting and first auditions will be held next Wednesday at the Northern Columbia Community and Cultural Center located in Benton. Auditions for children under 12 will be next Thursday. For additional information call 925-0163.

The Central Pennsylvania Historic Preservations are holding a snowman quilt raffle. Tickets are $2.00 each or 3 to $5.00. The drawing will be held January 19th. Call 356-7346 to purchase tickets.

The Bloomsburg Area YMCA presents their 10th annual New Year’s Eve 5K on Saturday December 31st. The walk/run takes off at 7:00 PM from the YMCA. For more information or to register contact the Bloomsburg Y at 784-0188.

It doesn't happen that often on Main Street in Bloomsburg... but a man... armed with a knife robbed a store which caters to young adults around 7 O'clock last night at Main and Iron Streets. Police say 31 – year old Alexander Zaldiar used the knife to simply cut through the ties that held a tip jar to the counter. Sgt. Leonard Rogutski says when leaving the shop.... Zaldivar dropped the jar... spilling the contents along Iron Street. He was captured overnight and taken to the police station for questioning.

Kidsburg

With word that Kidsburg at the Bloomsburg Town Park will be demolished this spring... that has left the driving force of the project... sad. Karen Heaps headed the Town Park Association when the idea of Kidsburg was first proposed in the early 90's and hates to see it dismantled. Kidsburg was severely damaged during September flooding... but once the place is dismantled... the current association board plans a major fundraiser with money earmarked for the construction of a replacement park.

Project Keystone

The Department of Public Welfare in Harrisburg has initiated a program entitled Project Keystone. It's a federally funded program the state initiated in September during flooding and is designed for crisis counseling and disaster support. The Department's Amy Boya says Project Keystone will pair flood victims with support and connect them with resources that can help with recovery... as well as help them get their affairs taken care of. Project Recovery's number is toll free 1-855-789-7890.

Bridge Open

PennDOT has opened another flood – ravaged bridge after it was damaged by waters produced by Hurricane Irene earlier this year. The agency's Rick Mason says the Route 487 bridge at Lopez... in Sullivan County is now open to traffic. Hurricane Irene's flood waters in late August washed out its predecessor, a 79-year old, single-span, steel I-beam bridge over Loyalsock Creek just off Main Street in the village. Mason says PennDOT developed an emergency contract to fast-track the bridge's replacement on the heavily traveled route.

BTE

The Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble says it's getting closed to raising the $22,000 it needed to bring productions to elementary and middle school students throughout the area. They were recently informed by the National Endowments for the Arts... there would be a cutback in their funding. According to a news release... 120 donors have stepped up to the plate... contributing more than $17,000 to bridge the budget gap... and are hoping to raise the entire amount before the end of the year.

Busted

A Hazleton man is in trouble with the feds as he tried to get through security at Dulles Airport near Washington. 29 – year old Elias Casiano, Jr. is charged with attempting to smuggle $300,000 in heroin to the country following a flight from Bolivia. Federal agents say he had an estimated 10 pounds of the white powder sewn into the lining of soccer pants and a banner. Casiano is now jailed on those drug charges.

Meth Lab

Police in Lansford... near Hazleton... are looking for the people responsible for running a meth lab out of an East Ridge Street home. The lab was discovered by a contractor doing work on the building. Police are continuing the investigation.

Laurel Mall

Another tenant will soon be lost at the Laurel Mall near Hazleton. Published reports say The Downs... an off – track wagering facility for Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs will close at the end of the year.

Education Money

Pennsylvania is one of seven states to share $200 – million in federal “Race to the Top” money. The state will receive $41.3 million dollars to improve K- thru – 12 education program. The so – called “race to the top” was started by the Department of Education.

WHLM Sports

All State
Southern Columbia lineman Tom Schetorma missed his entire junior season with an injury, but came back strong this season and, for his efforts, has been named to the Pennsylvania Sportswriters All State Football team. He is joined by teammate Matt Moore. Also making the All – State team is Bloomsburg's Blake Rankin... as well as Mt. Carmel's Eric Joraski and Cody Shustack.

Boys HS Basketball

In boys' high school basketball last night, Berwick played at Central Columbia. The Blue Jays defeating the Bulldogs 50 to 34. In other boys' games last night Muncy downs Columbia Montour Vo Tech 91 to 64... Bucktail defeats Benton 72 to 51...

Girls HS Basketball

In girls games last night Lourdes Regional got by Columbia Montour VO Tech 79 to 27.

Thursday Night Football

In the NFL last night... Indianapolis just getting by Houston 19 to 16.

A Berwick man... living in an apartment in Bloomsburg... is out on bail after he was charged with allegedly sexually assaulting a woman roommate. The Press – Enterprise is reporting in Thursday's s edition... 23 – year old Joshua Walsh allegedly sexually assaulted the roommate early Wednesday morning at their West Anthony Avenue apartment. Walsh was arraigned before a district justice... transported to the Columbia County Prison... but was freed after his father posted $1,000 bail.

Town Council

With no last minute issues facing them... the Bloomsburg Town Council Tuesday night unanimously approved a $4.3 – million dollar operating budget for 2012. Bloomsburg Mayor Dan Knorr said they got a late start on preparing the spending plan due to September flooding. The property tax rate remains the same. And despite an estimated $97,000 deficit...the plan calls for the hiring of a police officer at mid-year... and an additional person in the Code Enforcement office as well as a third police clerk.

Kidsburg

Kidsburg in Bloomsburg's Town Park is going to have to be demolished. That word from Chuck Wagner at Wednesday night's Town Council meeting. Wagner is the president of the Town Park Association... telling council memebers major problems were created due to September flooding. A second problem is the water destroying Kidsburg's foundation... and that would force the Association to spend thousands of dollars to replace it. So Council gave the go – ahead to have the 10 – year old kids park demolished in the spring... so a second Kidsburg can be built.

Sentence

A Luzerne County man will be serving the next 20 to 40 years of his life behind bars. That... after Lamont Cherry of Wilkes – Barre was sentenced Wednesday in the death of 12 – month old Zalayia McCloe. In October, a jury found Cherry guilty of third degree murder. During the trial, prosecutors said that Cherry shook the girl so much she received massive head trauma.

Fire Investigation

The home of a Dorrance Township family went up in flames this week... for the second time since September. Renovations were being performed on the home... but this time it burned to the ground. The Medvetz family home on Blue Ridge Trail is now considered a total loss. The first fire in September was ruled accidental... but this time a state police fire marshal has been called into the determine the cause of the latest blaze.

John Gordner

Pennsylvania's application for the State Small Business Credit Initiative has been approved by the U.S. Treasury Department. The commonwealth is now eligible to receive over 29 – million dollars. At a Harrisburg news conference.... State Senator John Gordner of Berwick.. chairman of the Senate's Labor and Industry committee... said 150 new jobs will be created... with a salary range of at least $60,000 a year. Pennsylvania is the only state in the nation is receiving the funds and dispersing a portion of them to local economic development agencies.

Job openings

When home rule takes effect in neighboring Luzerne County January 2nd... whoever is named County Manager will have some resumes to sift through. As it stands now... there are eight new division head positions to be filled under Home Rule... and thus far roughly 175 applicants have applied for the positions. They range from Administrative Services Director to Public Defender. Once the final selection is made... it will be up to the 11 member county commission to confirm the manager's choice.

In WHLM Sports

Bloomsburg Basketball

Bloomsburg played at Southern Columbia last night in girls high school basketball. In a game you heard on the WHLM Stations Southern defeated Bloomsburg 67 to 37. In other girls' basketball last night, it was Benton over Sullivan County 42 to 32... and Danville getting by Midd West 60 to 27.

Boys Basketball

In boys basketball last night Lake Lehman defeated Berwick 58 to 44.

On The Air

Tonight in boys basketball.... Berwick is at Central Columbia. You can catch all the action with the pregame show at 7:10 on News Radio 930, 94.7, 104.3, Berwick's 1280 and www.whlm.com.

Governor Corbett should have a piece of legislation on his desk this morning dealing with the newly redrawn Pennsylvania congressional districts. State Representative David Millard of Mt. Pleasant Township voted for the measure which keeps congressman Lou Barletta of Hazleton as our congressman. Although Congressman Barletta looses Wilkes – Barre and Scranton from his district... he does pick up constituents in Wyoming County.

Home Invasion

Four men are in the Columbia County Prison in Bloomsburg this morning... three of them facing home invasion and robbery charges... and the fourth charged in a separate incident. The Press – Enterprise is reporting in Wednesday's edition 19 – year old Theodore Thomas and 21 – year old Adam Kaiser allegedly forced their way into an apartment at gunpoint at 533 E. 4th Street in Bloomsburg Monday evening... and made off with two laptops belonging to Brandon and Tyler Burns... while 20 – year old Colton Oppel and 20 – year old Cameron Steier waited in the background. Thomas, Kaiser and Steier were arrested by police... while Oppel surrendered to authorities Tuesday. All are in Prison in lieu of a quarter - million dollars bail each.

Bloomsburg / Central

The Central Columbia School Board has hired an architect... and are going ahead with plans to renovate their 51 – year old High School on Old Berwick Road. Central Superintendent Harry Mathias says that will run concurrently with a study being conducted to see if the Bloomsburg district can share services with Central or maybe consolidate. Both Mr. Mathias and Bloomsburg Superintendent Cos Curry says the committee and a financial consultant will try to determine if either shared services of consolidation make any sense.

Pepe Resigns

Berwick will soon be looking for a new borough manager. At the end of Tuesday night's council meeting... current manager Shane Pepe announced his resignation... effective January 21st. The Press – Enterprise is reporting in Wednesday's edition that Pepe says he's headed to a similar job in Southeast Pennsylvania... but he didn't name a specific city. As the search is launched for a replacement... assistant borough manager Lauren Martz will run day to day operations.

Rich Ridgway

Republican Columbia County Commissioner– elect Rich Ridgway is trying to come up to speed for his new job come early January. Ridgway has attended a conference for newly – elected county commissioners to find out what he can and cannot do. Ridgway and other municipal officials will attend swearing in ceremonies at the Columbia County Courthouse January 3rd.

PPL

A lot of PPL Corporation stockholders are circling May 16th on their calendar. That's the date set for the company's annual meeting. It will take place at the Zoellner Arts Center on the campus of Lehigh University in Bethlehem. A couple of hundred people are expected to attend the meeting.

Luzerne County Budget

Luzerne County Commissioners continue to mull over their budget for the 2012 fiscal year. Right now... the commissioners are dealing with a 122 – million dollar proposed spending plan... about 3 - million dollars less than a year ago. That means no property tax increase... but it could lead to the layoff of an estimated 60 county employees. The commissioners must have a budget in place by the end of the year.

Assault Sentence

A Hazleton man gets to spend the next six to twelve years in state prison after he was convicted of assaulting an off – duty police officer. 23 – year old Ricardo Sanchez was convicted in September of the assault of officer Michael Colasurdo in May of 2010 outside a restaurant. Sanchez began the assault after Colasurdo asked him to simply move his car so he could leave. This is not the first time Sanchez has been in trouble with the law... published reports say he has a criminal record which includes eleven convictions for various crimes.

Accident

A truck driver from Reading was treated for injuries after his big rig crashed early Tuesday morning on Route 54... near Bear Gap in Northumberland County. The paper hauling 18 – wheeler smacked into an embankment near the Aqua PA water plant... splitting the trailer in half... and spilling some of the contents and shutting down the road for a couple of hours. No word if trucker Brian Petro will be charged in the crash.

WHLM Sports

Bloomsburg Basketball

The Bloomsburg High School boys' basketball team played their Heartland Conference Division 3 opener last night at South Williamsport. At the final buzzer... South Williamsport defeated the Panthers 54 to 52.

In other boys basketball games last night... in double overtime. Montoursville defeated Central Columbia 59 to 58... Danville got by Selinsgrove 69 to 34... and Sullivan County out-distanced Benton 50 to 19.

Girls Basketball

In girls' basketball tonight, Bloomsburg is at Southern Columbia. Catch the action with the pregame show at 7:10 on News Radio 930, 94.7, 104.3, Berwick's 1280 and www.whlm.com.

With the Central Columbia School District wanting to do a massive renovation project to their high school... and the Bloomsburg Middle and Senior High School under the constant threat of flooding... maybe it's time to share services.... so says Bloomsburg Superintendent Dr. Cos Curry. Dr. Curry asking the school board last night to at least study the situation. The board agreed. Dr. Curry says the study group will take a look at everything... from sharing classroom space... to the possibility of merging the two districts. That group is expected to present its report sometime next summer.

Wounded Warrior

A big boost for the Wounded Warrior project from Sunbury – based Weis Supermarkets. The chain with... 161 stores in five states... giving the project a $100,000 check for their on-going programs. The money was raised over the past three weeks by Weis check out personnel selling black wrist bands across the supermarket's system.

Home Invasion

Three people are in the Columbia County Prison following a home invasion that took place early last evening. Bloomsburg Police aren't saying much about the incident.. such as where it took place or the name of the trio caught... but they continue to look for a fourth suspect. That person is 20 – year old Colton Blair Oppel of Deer Path Drive in North Center Township. It's believed he's the driver of a 2003 light colored Ford Taurus used as the getaway vehicle. Police say he may be armed with a handgun used in the home invasion.

Berwick Coach

Tense moments as the Berwick School Board met last night to talk about the future of head football coach Gary Campbell. After saving his job two weeks ago... Campbell told ninth grade coaches that their services wouldn't be needed next year... that after a winning season. The board telling Campbell last night he doesn't have the power to fire anyone. In the end... Campbell's job remains safe.... and the 9th grade coaches will be back next year.

Gas Prices

The Triple A fuel gauge report says the average price for a gallon of gas has dropped 14 cents across northeastern Pennsylvania over the past month. The latest report out this morning.... shows the price of a gallon of self-serve, unleaded regular now averaging $3.28... the same as Monday... and off four cents from a week ago. Although the average is $3.28... if you look around... particularly in the Mifflinville area... you'll be able to find unleaded regular at $3.15 a gallon.

Hazleton Budget

Hazleton City Council last night adopted their $7 – million 2012 budget without much fanfare. That happened during a meeting Monday night at City Hall. It's an amended version which includes a smaller property tax increase than was first proposed earlier this month. Instead of the original 14% proposed tax hike.... property owners will now see a 9.9% increase will will cover debt service... to pay overdue bills... and the city's tax anticipation note.

Hazleton Fire

A woman was taken to a hospital and treated after she initially refused to leave her burning home in Hazleton late Sunday night. Authorities say they were called to the 300 block of West Elm late last night. Firemen on first due apparatus found flames shooting from the second flood. The woman didn't want to leave the burning building... but finally came out and sent to the hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation. Cause of last night's fire in Hazleton remains under investigation.

Hazleton Robbery

Hazleton Police say they're looking for a man who robbed a Dollar General store over the weekend. Investigators says the man strolled into the store into the East Diamond Avenue store... snatching money from the register. Anyone with information is asked to call Hazleton PD at 459 – 4940.

WHLM Sports

BU Basketball

The Bloomsburg University women's basketball team played Chestnut Hill College Monday afternoon in Philadelphia. The Huskies defeating Chestnut Hill 80 to 64.

High School Basketball

In girls' high school basketball last night Danville defeats Bloomsburg 45 to 35. Berwick Bulldogs fall to Pocono Mountain West 44 to 25. South Williamsport over Southern Columbia 67 to 51and Muncy downed Columbia Montour VO Tech 58 to 31...

Boys Basketball

In boys high school basketball tonight Bloomsburg is at South Williamsport in the Heartland Conference Division 3 opener for both teams. You can hear that game starting with the pregame show at 7:10 on News Radio 930, 94.7 and 104.3 as well as Berwick's 1280, and www.whlm.com.

Monday Night Football

In the NFL last night... despite power problems at Candlestick Park... the San Francisco 49ers defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers 20 to 3.

Investigators are expected to be back at a Cleveland Township home today... looking for the cause of a Sunday afternoon fire. The home of Dan and Linda Anderson on Wynn School Road near Elysburg sustained substantial damage when flames shot through the structure. The Press – Enterprise is reporting in today's edition that those in the home got out safely. Missing, however are a cat and a dog. The Anderson's saved what they could. They're being helped by the American Red Cross.

Shamokin Creek

It's been on the back burner for a quarter – century.... now Mt. Carmel borough council has kick started a proposed flood control project along a 15 block stretch of Shamokin Creek. SEDA – COG's Steve Kusheloff says during the past 14 months... there have been at least five flooding events... which have ruined furnaces... and stick – built homes have been moved off their foundations... as well as mobile homes moved. SEDA – COG's Kusheloff says 13 - million dollars for the project has been secured with the Mt. Carmel Borough Council pitching in a half – million dollars.... and now the project is just awaiting another half – million dollars from the Community Development Block Grand program for the flood control project to begin in Mt. Carmel.

Roger Brown

Work continues on installing the newest attraction at the YMCA on 7th Street in Bloomsburg. How 'bout a 92 by 52 foot ice rink delivered last week from a Wisconsin company. “Y” executive director Roger Brown said the “Y” decided to purchase the in – ground rink based on the results of a survey which indicated folks were looking for a safe place to ice skate.

School Money

The Danville area school district could be in line for about $247,000 in state reimbursements. Right now... it's uncertain if they'll get the money since a former business manager didn't file paperwork as required. If it does come through... it will be earmarked for the cost of Danville's Primary School construction... and would be doled out over a two year period.

Fatal / Funeral Services

Funeral services will be held Thursday morning at the McMichael Funeral Home in Benton for 23 – yer old Russell Hack. He died early Saturday morning in a one vehicle accident at the intersection of Winding and Asbury Roads in Fishing Creek Township. He was a passenger in a pick up driven by 27 – year old Kyle Shaffer who was air lifted to the Geisinger Medical Center for treatment.

Alleged Assault

A 22 – year old Bloomsburg man is in trouble with the law after he was charged with allegedly sexually assaulting an intoxicated teenage girl in a wooded area of Mt. Carmel Township. Charging affidavits indicate the incident happened in September of 2010. Kenneth Mull the Third of Montour Boulevard was arraigned before a Northumberland District Justice. After failing to post 30 – thousand dollars in bail.... he was returned to the Columbia County Prison where he's being held on a unrelated charge.

I-80 Work

PennDOT continues it's work on the bridges which span the Susquehanna River between the Lime Ridge and Mifflinville exits. The agency's Rick Mason says that starting Monday... and lasting through Thursday... both eastbound lanes will occasionally be subjected to rolling roadblocks during the daylight hours. This will allow the contractor doing the job to set new beams for the new westbound river bridge.

Tim Holden

Congressman Tim Holden of St. Clair plans to be in the Wyoming Valley over the holidays. The reason... he inherits some of the area formerly represented by Congressman Lou Barletta of Hazleton. Under redistricting... Holden will now represent the cities of Wilkes – Barre and Scranton... while Barletta's district is shifted somewhat to the south... and still retains Columbia and Montour Counties. Holden says he want to meet as many new constituents as possible during the holiday season.

Joe Maddon

Baseball's Tampa Bay Ray's manager Joe Maddon was back home in Hazleton on Sunday. He hosted his annual “Thanksmas” meal at the Salvation Army in Hazleton. There were a couple of hundred people who sat down for a holiday meal. Maddon and his wife have been sponsoring the event for the past couple of years in Luzerne County... as well as Florida's Tampa Bay area.

WB Shooting

A Wilkes-Barre man remains in the Luzerne County Prison without bail. Police say Stanley Davis, Jr. allegedly shot and killed Carlotta Spring – Howard during an apparent argument at her Sterling Street apartment at the start of the weekend. David is charged with criminal homicide and a firearm offense when he was booked into jail early Saturday morning.

BU Women's Basketball

In WHLM sports Monday afternoon the Huskies were on the road to face the Chestnut Hill College Gryphons in Philly. BU won the game 80-64. Their next game will be Dec. 30th when they play Georgian Court. You can hear all the details from Monday's action with Larry White in the WHLM Husky Post Game Report:

The Animal Resource Center will be at the Columbia Mall for gift wrapping now through December 24th. Your donations for their gift wrapping will benefit their no kill Animal Resource Center.

The Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble presents “Holiday Memories” this weekend at the Alvina Krause Theatre. Show time is this afternoon 3:00 pm.

The Bloomsburg Fire Department will hold their monthly breakfast buffet from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm at 911 Market Street.

The Potts Grove Fire Hall is serving up their monthly all you can eat breakfast buffet from 7:00 am to 1:00 pm

The Animal Resource Center will host an American Girl Doll bingo at the Espy Fire Hall…doors open at 12:30 and early bird games start at 2:00 pm.

New Heart Christian Fellowship will host their annual “Happy Birthday Jesus” party today at 3:00 pm. The church is located at 507 East Third Street in Nescopeck.

Holy Annunciation Orthodox Church is hosting a free Christmas Choral Concert this afternoon at 3:00 pm. The church is located on Second Avenue in Berwick.

You’re invited to the Friends Helping Friends benefit dinner and concert at the Danville Child Development Center tonight. The spaghetti dinner from 5:00 to 9:00 pm and the concert by Dawson from 9:00 to 10:00 pm will benefit flood victims.

Bethany United Methodist Church invites you to the Children’s Christmas Pageant and Hymn sing to night at 7:00 pm.

The Benton and Raven Creek Presbyterian Churches will sponsor their annual Christmas Music Services todayfeaturing the Susquehanna String Theory. The Raven Creek service is scheduled for 10:30 am, and the Benton Service will happen at 7:00 pm.

WHLM Sports

Southern Columbia faced Clairton in the 2011 State Football Championships Friday afternoon. Southern pulled it to within 2 in the 3rd quarter but were unable to topple Clairton's now record-setting winning streak. The final was Clairton 35 - Southern Columbia 19. You can hear all the details with Jim Doyle in the WHLM Friday Night Football Update:

The United Methodist Women of Wesley United Methodist Church are selling homemade assorted and Welsh cookies today starting at 8:30 am at the church. The homemade assorted cookies are $5.00 per pound, and the Welsh cookies are $5.00 per dozen.

Trinity Reformed United Church of Christ in Bloomsburg is hosting a cookie walk today from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. The church is located at 260 East Seventh Street in Bloomsburg.

Catawissa First United Methodist Church invites you out to their annual Christmas cookie bake shop today from 8:30 am to noon. They’ll be selling cookies for $5.00 a pound in addition to other baked goods, homemade candy, and peanuts.

AGAPE is hosting a toy giveaway to flood victims today from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm at the Bloomsburg Mills warehouse location…there will also be a clothing giveaway at the AGAPE center today…please bring your FEMA number.

Sweet Valley Church of Christ invites you to a free Christmas drama tonight at 7:00 pm. This year’s program is called “It’s a Wonderful Carol.”

The Animal Resource Center will be at the Columbia Mall for gift wrapping now through December 24th. Your donations for their gift wrapping will benefit their no kill Animal Resource Center.

The Loose Ties Model Railroad Society is at the Columbia Mall again this weekend. They’ll be giving out a free train to a boy or girl. In addition to that the free Wheelchair Engineers Train program will be open at the mall this weekend.

And the trains program at Christ Memorial Episcopal Church in Danville will be open from 10:00 am to noon.

The Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble presents “Holiday Memories” this weekend at the Alvina Krause Theatre. Show times are this afternoon at 2:00 pm, tonight at 7:30 pm, and tomorrow afternoon at 3:00 pm.

The Potts Grove Fire Hall is serving up their monthly all you can eat breakfast buffet tomorrow from 7:00 am to 1:00 pm

The Animal Resource Center will host an American Girl Doll bingo tomorrow at the Espy Fire Hall…doors open at 12:30 and early bird games start at 2:00 pm.

New Heart Christian Fellowship will host their annual “Happy Birthday Jesus” party tomorrow at 3:00 pm. The church is located at 507 East Third Street in Nescopeck.

Holy Annunciation Orthodox Church is hosting a free Christmas Choral Concert tomorrow afternoon at 3:00 pm. The church is located on Second Avenue in Berwick.

You’re invited to the Friends Helping Friends benefit dinner and concert at the Danville Child Development Center tomorrow night. The spaghetti dinner from 5:00 to 9:00 pm and the concert by Dawson from 9:00 to 10:00 pm will benefit flood victims.

Bethany United Methodist Church invites you to the Children’s Christmas Pageant and Hymn sing tomorrow night at 7:00 pm.

The Benton and Raven Creek Presbyterian Churches will sponsor their annual Christmas Music Services tomorrow featuring the Susquehanna String Theory. The Raven Creek service is scheduled for 10:30 am, and the Benton Service will happen at 7:00 pm.

WHLM Sports

Southern Columbia faced Clairton in the 2011 State Football Championships Friday afternoon. Southern pulled it to within 2 in the 3rd quarter but were unable to topple Clairton's now record-setting winning streak. The final was Clairton 35 - Southern Columbia 19. You can hear all the details with Jim Doyle in the WHLM Friday Night Football Update:

Authorities from Oklahoma are expected to be in Columbia County within days to pick up a former Bloomsburg University professor... charged conspiring to make child pornography. 65 – year old Gary Doby is in the Columbia County Prison on a half million dollars bail after an arraignment in Catawissa Thursday. Oklahoma court documents show that a teacher in the Shawnee School District... identified as Kimberly Crain... took pictures and shot video of underage girls in nothing more than bras and panties... then allegedly e-mail the pictures to Doby. Once in Pottawatomie County, Oklahoma... Doby will be arraigned on the kiddie porn charges.

Court Appearance

Two of Penn State's most powerful officials will fight perjury charges and allegations they did not respond properly nine years ago after getting a report a young boy had been sodomized in the football team's showers. It's all part of the Sandusky sex scandal. Gary Schultz and Tim Curley will hear more of the alleged evidence against them later today during a preliminary hearing to determine if their cases should go to trial.

Salvation Army

With Christmas a little more than a week away... the folks with the Salvation Army in Berwick say Red Kettle donations are about 15% off than they were a year ago. Lt. Kevin Polito says the floods of September and current economic times has placed a pinch on his organization. Lt. Polito says bell ringers and their big, red kettles are found in front of retail outlets in Berwick and Bloomsburg... as well as at the Columbia Mall and Wal – Mart in Buckhorn.

Mt. Carmel Project

An estimated 14 – dollar million flood control project is slated for Mt. Carmel... in Northumberland County... once the final piece of the financing is secured. That word from SEDA – COG's Steve Kusheloff who says when it rains... Shamokin Creek can become nasty... damaging an estimated 230 homes adjacent to the waterway several times over the past 14 months. Kusheloff says 13- million dollars has already been secured from the state... the Mt. Carmel Borough Council has raised a half million dollars... and SEDA – COG has submitted an application for another half – million from the Community Development Block Grant program.

Guilty Verdict

A Luzerne County court jury has found Izel and Isiah Garrett guilty of murder in the death of a Hazleton man last year. It took the jury just over two hours to find the Garrett Brothers guilty in the death of 30 – year old Abdul Hakeem Shabazz. He was shot and killed while delivering marijuana to the Garrett's West Third Street home in West Hazleton. No word as to when the Garrett's will be sentenced.

YMCA / Ice Rink

There will be a new activity this winter at the Bloomsburg YMCA on 7th Street. The organization taking delivery of a 48 – hundred square foot ice rink this week... just in time for the winter skating season... so say's the “Y's” Roger Brown. He says the “Y” purchased the 92 by 52 foot rink after a survey determined that folks wanted a safe place to ice skate during the winter.

PennDOT

Within the not too distant future... the snow will be falling and the folks from PennDOT will be out... trying to make the roads passable. The agency's Rick Mason says you should give those big, yellow trucks with plows plenty of room. In addition to plowing the roads... the trucks are simultaneously spreading salt and anti – skid in order to make the roads passable.

Unemployment

The state's unemployment rate continues to fall. Unemployment was 7.9 % in November... down from 8.1 % in October. That moved the rate below the current national level of 8.6 % percent. The big reason for the downturn in the monthly numbers.... employment was up 12,000 jobs... while the number of unemployed residents fell.

Burglary

State Police at Bloomsburg are investigating a burglary which occurred at midday yesterday at a home at 2889, Route 42... in Iola... in Greenwood Township. Investigators tell us someone broke into the storage shed of 50 – year old Robert Ferguson. Someone smashing a window then forcing opening a door latch. The thieves made with two, five gallon cans of gasoline. If you have information about the burglary call state police at 387-4261.

Benton Wrestler

A High School wrestler cannot compete this season now that he's transferred from the Line Mountain to the Benton school district. Northumberland County President Judge Robert Sacavage refused to grant an injunction to 16 – year old Zain Retherford which would have allowed him to wrestle. His family moved from Dorensife to the Benton District to be closer to employment opportunities. And although not allowed to compete this season... Retherford will be allowed to wrestle with the Benton during the 2012 – 2013 school year.

ATV Park

A 1.5 - million dollar state grant has been earmarked for the proposed Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area in Northumberland County. The park designed for All Terrain Vehicles will be developed on 6,000 acres of land in Coal... Zerbe... Mt. Carmel... as well as East and West Cameron Townships. Planning by Northumberland County goes back to earlier in the year when it requested the money... on top of the 2 - million dollars in grants already received. It's believed that once the ATV park opens... it will eliminate illegal use of the machines in abandoned strip mines.

WHLM Sports

Southern Columbia faced Clairton in the 2011 State Football Championships Friday afternoon. Southern pulled it to within 2 in the 3rd quarter but were unable to topple Clairton's now record-setting winning streak. The final was Clairton 35 - Southern Columbia 19. You can hear all the details with Jim Doyle in the WHLM Friday Night Football Update:

The National Transportation Safety Board wants to eliminate cell phone use in our cars so we aren't distracted behind the wheel. The NTSB wants no talking.... no texting... no emails and they are suggesting to states that they develop laws to do just that. Ric Dorshak of TelUS Communications on Route 11 in Scott Township it's simply an issue of common sense when to use your phone.

BU Student

A Bloomsburg University student... charged with punching a man in the face producing brain damage... is now in trouble with New Jersey authorities. The Press – Enterprise is reporting in Thursday's edition 21 – year old Corey Winkler was arrested over the weekend in Sparta... for allegedly attempting to hold up a 7/11 convenience store. Authorities say he pulled a knife on a clerk. Cops arrested Winkler at gunpoint and is undergoing mental evaluation. He is being held on $100,000 thousand dollars bail.

AGAPE Giveaway

AGAPE of Bloomsburg continues to help families affected by September flooding as we head into the Christmas season. On Saturday... they'll have a toy giveaway at the former Bloomsburg Mills Warehouse on 6th Street starting at 10 O'clock. Also to be given away are Christmas trees on a first come, first serve basis. AGAPE's Kathy Lowe says you must have a FEMA number to be eligible.

Hazleton Fire

A state police fire marshal says a fire Wednesday afternoon in Hazleton Heights is arson. The blaze broke out at 161 Dietrich Avenue after firefighters found trash smoldering on the inside several rooms. The home was under bank foreclosure... with the fire discovered by an inspector who was checking for mold.

Postal Facility

Congressman Lou Barletta of Hazleton... who represents Columbia County in Washington... has tossed his support behind a decision by the US Postal Service to place a moratorium on the closing of processing facilities until May of next year. On the danger list was the processing facility in Scranton. Initial plans called for the place to be shuttered... with the work going to the Lehigh Valley. The move would have effected up to 300 employees. The added time give Congress an opportunity to work on a plan to save the Scranton facility... as well as one in Williamsport.

McAdoo Men

A federal judge in Anchorage has rejected a plea deal for two Schuylkill County men accused of harassing former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin. 20 – year old Shawn Christy... and his father 48 – year old Craig of McAdoo will now stand trial in early January. The Christys had hoped to avoid prison time... and hundreds of thousands of dollars in fines by agreeing to the plea deal.

Hit & Run

Schuylkill County authorities have filed hit and run charges against a driver who allegedly ran down an elderly pedestrian earlier this week in St. Clair. Joan Trayah is accused of running over while attempting to make a turn. It was all caught on a surveillance camera. Trayah has admitted to hitting the woman... stopping... hearing the woman moan and then taking off to go to her job as a bartender in St. Clair.

WHLM Sports

Central / Bloomsburg

The local rivalry between Central Columbia and Bloomsburg was renewed last night in girls' high school basketball. Central defeating Bloomsburg 39 to 26. In boys' basketball last night South Williamsport defeated Columbia Montour Vo Tech 64 - 30

Ron Powlus

Former Berwick high school football star Ron Powlus has joined the coaching staff at Kansas University. He will be the quarterbacks coach for the Jayhawks who recently hired Charlie Weiss as their head coach.

Southern Columbia / Clairton

Berwick and Southern Columbia have both won six high school football state championships. Friday in Hershey, Southern Columbia will try for number 7 when the Tigers take on Clairton in the Class A final. You can catch all the action starting with the pregame show at 12:30 on News Radio 930, 94.7, 104.3, Berwick's 1280, and www.whlm.com.

An issue dealing with drivers stopping when a person is in a crosswalk surfaced at the Bloomsburg Town Council meeting this week. Oren Helbok who runs the Moose Exchange on Main Street at Jefferson and says it's a dangerous situation when drivers don't stop to let people cross Main Street... as called for in the state's driver – pedestrian law. So Mr. Helbok and I strolled across Main Street... not one driver stopped for us... in essence in violation of state law. Helbok says he brought the issue up due to the safety of customers of the Moose Exchange after nightfall.

Sandusky Suprise

There was a stunned courtroom in Bellefonte... in Centre County on Tuesday when Jerry Sandusky and his attorneys decided to waive a preliminary hearing moments before it was to begin. Sandusky is the former Penn State football coach... charged with 52 counts of child sex abuse... involving ten boys. It's a charge Sandusky has denied. Several of the alleged victims were ready to testify. He will be formally arraigned January 11th.

Barletta District

There is a shake up in Congressman Lou Barletta’s district according to a redistricting proposal released Tuesday in Harrisburg. Barletta... of Hazleton and who represents Columbia County... would no longer have the Wyoming Valley in his district following the 2012 election. Instead... that area would be shifted to the district currently represented by Tim Holden... a Democrat from St. Clair. Barletta will assume the representation of the Back Mountain area of Luzerne County... and all of Wyoming County.

Court Appearance

A day in Northumberland County Court for a Mt. Carmel high school football player accused of underage drinking. 18 – year old Meyrick Lamb of Marion Heights was found not guilty stemming from his arrest in October. Lamb... as well as 18 – year old Jacob Kleman and 18 – year old Jeffrey Cooney were charged with underage drinking after the trio was found in a parked car along Route 54 in September.

First Columbia

A demolition project on Market Street in Bloomsburg is just about wrapped. For the past couple of days... crews have been tearing down the building and drive thru of the flood ravaged First Columbia Bank building. It hasn't been used since flooding three months ago... and since that time the building has sat there... unused. Crews spending Tuesday placing the building's remains in a dumpster for the trip to the landfill. A new facility will go up in its place.

School of Excellence

The students and staff at the Bloomsburg Memorial Elementary school are still basking in the glow of being named a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence by the US Department of Education. Memorial being only one of five elementary schools in the state to receive the award. Principal Ryan Moran says it all comes down to respect. Only 14 schools across the state received the US Department of Education award.

Hazleton Fire

Investigators say a cigarette may have been the cause of a Hazleton apartment fire on Tuesday leaving two people homeless. Firemen were called to 359 W. Broad St at midday. Once there... they found a couch on fire. Now... the Hazleton chapter of the American Red Cross are helping Lois and Richard Hall get their lives back together.

Committee Vote

A state house committee calling for people to buy beer and wine from private retailers.... while keeping state – controlled liquor stores open. Republicans supported the bill along a party line vote... saying it is the only privatization legislation that has won a committee vote since Prohibition. Governor Corbett is pushing to get out of the liquor store business... and calls for the auctioning of wine and liquor store licenses.

High School Basketball

In girls' High School Basketball Wednesday night, Central Columbia beat backyard rivals Bloomsburg by a score of 39-26. You can hear all the details with Jim Doyle in the WHLM Post Game Report:

We won't be hearing from the men who claim Jerry Sandusky sexually abused them. The former Penn State assistant football coach suddenly - and unexpectedly - waived his preliminary hearing before a District Court judge in Bellefonte. Hundreds had gathered at the courthouse to hear upwards of 10 alleged sex abuse victims testify about what happened to them. An arraginment for Sandusky is scheduled for January 11th. He remains free on $250,000 bond.

Wise Sentenced

A Danville man will spend the next 15 to 32 years in prison for the death of his girlfriend. 33 – year old Westley Wise was sentenced in Montour County Court on Monday. He recently pleaded guilty to third degree murder in the stabbing death of 26 – year old Jessica Frederick at their Danville home last January. Frederick was stabbed 27 times. President Judge Thomas James could have sentenced Wise to 40 – years in prison... but James decided to take the middle ground in the case.

Bloomsburg Parking

Without a lot of fanfare.... the Bloomsburg Town Council last night adopted their proposed parking change effective January 1st and running through June. The most important provision is that permit and metered parking is now treated the same... in effect from 9 AM thru 5 PM.... Monday thru Friday. Another provision opening up ten metered spaces along East Street for businesses... as well as parking opened up with meters in Center Street near the BTE Theatre.

Kidsburg

Remember Kidsburg... at the Bloomsburg Town Park.... built nearly ten years ago... but is in bad need of repair since September flooding... and overall use. That word Town Park Association president Chuck Wagner who appeared at last night's Town Council meeting. Wagner calling Kidsburg a destination for area youngsters. Wagner telling council members that the association will repair Kidsburg.... trying to get an additional couple of years out of it before major repairs are needed.

Salvation Army Red Kettle

If you were out at the major retail outlets over the weekend... you probably saw Salvation Army Volunteers and their big red kettles. The money dropped in the kettles helps the Salvation Army in their quest to help people during the holiday season and throughout the year. Lt. Kevin Polito of the Berwick Salvation Army says it takes a special type of person to ring the bell day after day. You can spot bell ringers and their kettles outside major retailers in the Berwick, Bloomsburg and Buckhorn area.

Wapwallopen Fire

A state police fire marshal has ruled that a fire last Friday on Blue Ridge Trail in Wapwallopen was accidental in nature. The flames killed seven dogs. It also severely damaged the home of Paul and Michelle Nichols. The fire marshal ruled that the blaze started in the living room of the two story home.

Redistricting

On a vote of 4 to 1... a state Legislative Reapportionment commission has approved new borders for the state's 50 senate and 203 house seats. The big change in Luzerne County is the 116th district represented by Tarah Toohill... a republican from Butler Township. Her district will include Hazleton... and the townships surrounding that city... as well as Salem Township... Nescopeck and Conyngham.

Another change finds State Representative Karen Boback of Harveys Lake losing Benton township and the borough of Benton. That area going to State representative David Millard of Mt. Pleasant Township. State senator John Gordner also gains some ground in Luzerne County including his home area of Salem Township in East Berwick.

Although it won't happen anytime soon... United Water... the company that supplies drinking water to subscribers in the Bloomsburg area... is considering building a new, $16 – million filtration plant. The Utility's Bob Manbeck says building a new plant isn't as easy as it sounds because trying to find ground at a higher elevation is tough to come by. Mr. Manbeck says an engineering study will take into account what can be done in terms of the various types of technology to be utilized. If you recall... the company's Irondale Road plant was inundated three months ago by flood water... leaving subscribers dry for five days.

Karen Boback / FEMA

Time is running out to apply for federal aid... if you had damage to your home or business caused by either Hurricane Irene or Tropical Storm Lee... so says State Representative Karen Boback. Ms. Boback... who's district includes Benton and Benton Township.... says the final day to apply for aid is this Wednesday. In all.. 28 counties of central and eastern Pennsylvania... including Columbia and Montour Counties... come under the aid declaration.

FEMA Aid

With the deadline to apply for disaster assistance this week, federal assistance to Pennsylvanians who had damage from Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee stands at $383 – million dollars. Breaking it down... a FEMA spokesperson says $120 – million has gone into housing assistance... with another $78 – million earmarked for low – interest disaster loans from the Small Business Administration. Overall... 98,000 thousand people in a 28 county area... including Columbia and Montour have registered for disaster assistance.

Woman Struck

A 24 – year old cook at a West Main Street restaurant in Bloomsburg is recovering from injuries in the intensive care unit of Geisinger Medical Center. The Press – Enterprise is reporting in Monday's edition. Lizzette Velazquez was struck by a car late Saturday night as she attempted to cross Main Street. The driver... 26 – year old Alexander Rae of Anthony Avenue in Bloomsburg telling investigators he didn't see the woman. Police say Rae had not been drinking. No charges against have been filed pending further investigation.

Tasered in Thong

A 24 – year old Bronx woman... who refused to stop for police... had to be tased before being arrested on a variety of charges over the weekend. State Police at Bloomsburg telling us Silvia Badea was only wearing a thong when she was finally stopped by troopers Saturday morning in the Westbound lane of Interstate 80 in Mifflin Township. Cops wanted to pull over Badea for some traffic violations, but instead, led troopers on a ten mile chase before being stopped. When she resisted arrest she was tased. She now faces charges of fleeing and eluding... resisting arrest.. suspicion of DUI and multiple traffic violations.

Flood Buyouts / Shickshinny

Two – dozen flood prone homes in Shickshinny will be bought out by the federal government. That word coming at the state of the weekend from Congressman Lou Barletta of Hazleton. The cost... $2.1 - million dollars through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. Representative Barletta says FEMA will spent 1.5 – million dollars on the buyouts... while the remaining money comes from the state.

Danville Flood Control

State Senator John Gordner of Berwick.... and State Representative Kurt Masser has urged the Commonwealth Financing Authority to release $3 – million dollars for the completion of the Danville Flood Control Project. Gordner and Masser says the project not only represents the final component of the borough’s flood protection system, but is also a critical component of the decision making process related to the flooded Danville Middle School. The Board meets on January 25th and could consider projects under the H2O Program, which is currently funded. Danville has completed engineering and design work for the final component of the flood control project... and has an application before the CFA.

Ashley Slasher

Police say they're looking for a man who slashed a Nanticoke resident in the face with a box cutter over the weekend in Ashley... in Luzerne County. After the slasher cut 25 – year old Issac Taylor... he fled the scene. Taylor was treated at a hospital... receiving 40 stitches in the process. He was released following treatment.

Crestwood Schools

The Crestwood School board... in Luzerne County... has approved a measure... asking the Pennsylvania Department of Education... permission to install a security camera system for the inside and outside the district's high school. The big reason is the number of thefts. Superintendent Dave McLaughlin – Smith says the cost is estimated at $60,000.

Sex Assault

A Hazleton man is in the Luzerne County jail after being arrested and charged with sexual assault. Hazleton police say Jabhar Mullings was arrested after he allegedly assaulted a woman early Sunday morning near 7th and Hayes Street. Mullings faces a long list of charges.

In WHLM Sports

High School Basketball

The Bloomsburg High School boys basketball team split a pair of games over the weekend in a tournament at Hamburg High School. Monday night the Panthers play their home opener taking on Mount Carmel. You can hear that game on News Radio 930, 94.7, 104.3, Berwick's 1280 and www.whlm.com starting with the pregame show at 7:10.

High School Football

Unbeaten and two time defending state champion Clairton will be the opponent for Southern Columbia in Friday's Class A state championship football game at Hershey Park Stadium. That game kicks off at 1 o'clock. You can hear it on the WHLM stations beginning with the pregame show at 12:30.

National Football League

In the NFL yesterday afternoon, it was the Philadelphia Eagles downing the Miami Dolphins 26 to 10...The New York Jets getting by the Kansas City Chiefs 37 to 10.. and last night, it was the New York Giants squeezing by the Dallas Cowboys 37 – 34.

The Jubilate Choir and Orchestra present their 7th annual Christmas Concert this afternoon at 3:00 pm at St. Matthew Lutheran Church on North Market Street in Bloomsburg. There is no charge for the concert, but donations are welcome.

Christian Gospel Fellowship church presents the 15th annual living Christmas tree today at 2:00 pm and 7:00 pm. The presentation includes a 23-foot tree with 22 other trees decorated with lights and choreographed to music. There is no charge.

The Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble presents their main stage show this season “Holiday Memories,” this afternoon at 3:00 at the Alvina Krause Theater.

You can also catch their performance of The Santaland Diaries at the Moose Exchange in Downtown Bloomsburg this weekend. It’s happening tonight at 7:30.

You are invited to the 2nd annual free community Christmas Dinner today at the Caldwell Consistory in Bloomsburg. There will be special music and activities. Doors open at noon. There is no charge for the meal.

The Mifflinville Village Committee will hold their annual Christmas open house at the German School today from 1:00 to 5:00 pm. Santa will visit from 2:00 to 3:00 pm. The German school is located at the corner of Third and Race Streets in Mifflinville.

First United Methodist Church in Berwick invites you to their 15th annual Community Carol Sing tonight at 7:00 pm. The church is located at 200 North market Street in Berwick.

WHLM Sports

High School Football

In State Playoff Semifinals Friday night, Southern Columbia rolled over Penn's Manor 37-6. Southern goes on to face Clariton next Friday in the State Final. You can catch that game on the WHLM stations and here on WHLM.com.

Bloomsburg University

It's a busy weekend of college basketball at the Nelson Field House. Friday night the Huskies faced Slippery Rock. The Women's team won their game 86-67. The Men won their match as well 62-58. The Huskies face Mercyhurst Saturday afternoon.

You can hear all the details from Friday's local action in the WHLM Friday Night Update:

Christ United Lutheran Church will have a clothing give-away today from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. There will be a special children’s activity center…the church is located at 116 Church Street in Catawissa.

St. Paul’s Lutheran Church invites you to a holiday cookie sale today from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm. They’ll be selling assorted holiday favorites sold by the dozen or tray. The church is located at 60 Frosty Valley Road in Danville.

Today is the last day to drop off your donations of new toys to AGAPE for their giveaway to flood victims next weekend.

The train program at Christ Memorial Episcopal Church in Danville is closed today…the exhibit will be open as usual next Saturday.

Join the Berwick Historical Society for a Victorian Christmas at the Jackson Mansion tonight from 4:00 to 8:00 pm…there will be mansion tours, costumed guides, holiday music, Victorian décor, and holiday refreshments. Cost is $15.00.

The North Mountain Fire Company Grounds in Central will host a free live nativity musical production tonight at 7:00 PM with live animals, outdoor sets, and costumes.

The Jubilate Choir and Orchestra present their 7th annual Christmas Concert tonight at 7:00 pm and tomorrow afternoon at 3:00 pm at St. Matthew Lutheran Church on North Market Street in Bloomsburg. There is no charge for the concert, but donations are welcome.

Christian Gospel Fellowship church presents the 15th annual living Christmas tree tonight at 7:00 pm and tomorrow at 2:00 pm and 7:00 pm. The presentation includes a 23 foot tree with 22 other trees decorated with lights and choreographed to music. There is no charge.

The Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble presents their main stage show this season “Holiday Memories,” tonight at 7:30 and tomorrow afternoon at 3:00 at the Alvina Krause Theater.

You can also catch their performance of The Santaland Diaries at the Moose Exchange in Downtown Bloomsburg this weekend. It’s happening tonight at 7:30 and 10:00…and tomorrow at 7:30 pm.

You are invited to the 2nd annual free community Christmas Dinner tomorrow at the Caldwell Consistory in Bloomsburg. There will be special music and activities. Doors open at noon. There is no charge for the meal, but you can reserve your seat the meal by picking up a ticket today from 10:00 to 2:00 at the Caldwell Consistory.

The Mifflinville Village Committee will hold their annual Christmas open house at the German School tomorrow from 1:00 to 5:00 pm. Santa will visit from 2:00 to 3:00 pm. The German school is located at the corner of Third and Race Streets in Mifflinville.

First United Methodist Church in Berwick invites you to their 15th annual Community Carol Sing tomorrow night at 7:00 pm. The church is located at 200 North market Street in Berwick.

WHLM Sports

High School Football

In State Playoff Semifinals Friday night, Southern Columbia rolled over Penn's Manor 37-6. Southern goes on to face Clariton next Friday in the State Final. You can catch that game on the WHLM stations and here on WHLM.com.

Bloomsburg University

It's a busy weekend of college basketball at the Nelson Field House. Friday night the Huskies faced Slippery Rock. The Women's team won their game 86-67. The Men won their match as well 62-58. The Huskies face Mercyhurst Saturday afternoon.

You can hear all the details from Friday's local action in the WHLM Friday Night Update:

With the holiday season fast approaching... now is the time to have a lot of situational awareness... in essence where are your valuables are. Bloomsburg Police Officer Ken Auchter says between December 3rd and the 5th... officer investigated ten separate complaints of criminal mischief... and theft from vehicles along East 3rd and 4th Street... as well as along Lightstreet Road.

Sandusky

Former Penn State Assistant Football Coach Jerry Sandusky is free on bail Friday morning after spending one night in the Centre County Jail. Sandusky posted a $250,000 bond after he was arrested earlier this week on a dozen new sex abuse counts. On – line court records show that Sandusky secured his release using $200,000 in real estate holdings... and a $50,000 certified check provided by his wife.

Traffic Victim Identified

A 2011 graduate of Southern Columbia High School has been identified as the person killed in a collision between her car and a PennDOT snow plow on Route 487 earlier this week. 18 – year old Eleni Bennett of Mountain Road in Ralpho Township was pronounced dead at the scene. Locust Township police chief Allen Breach said Ms. Bennett died of blunt force trauma when the driver's side of her Kia collided with the big yellow snow plow. Investigators are still probing the crash, but it's believe slippery roads may have been a contributing factor.

AGAPE / Toys

Faith – based AGAPE is making sure the kids affected by the floods of September have a Merry Christmas. They're accepting donations of new toys through the close of business Saturday... which will be distributed next week. AGAPE's Kathy Lowe says the toy giveaway on the 17th takes place at the former Bloomsburg Mills warehouse on 6th Street.

Bath Salt Ban

Congressman Lou Barletta... who represents Columbia County... was in the majority when he voted for the passage of a bill dealing with the ban of so – called bath salts... and other synthetic drug substitutes.

The passage of the measure now recognizes the products as a schedule one drug of the controlled substances act. Passage of the measure in Washington comes months after Columbia County officials took action on their own to ban the sale of Bath Salts.

GMC / Flu

The Department of Health was at Geisinger Medical Center in Danville Thursday... where they presented an award for increasing influenza vaccination rates among its staff. Dr. Stephen Ostroff, the state’s Acting Physician General... presented the award and recognize all of the participants of the “Earn Your Stripes” campaign. The campaign designed to encourage hospitals in the commonwealth to increase influenza vaccination rates among health care workers. The event is part of National Influenza Vaccination Week, which runs through Saturday.

Trinity House

A ceremonial groundbreaking and ribbon cutting will be held this afternoon to mark the beginning of Trinity House at the corner of Third and Iron Streets. The project is a collaboration between the community and Bloomsburg University. The converted church provides housing to 19 adult tenants with disabilities. A university spokesperson says neighbors on either side are BU students who are gaining a real life experience. The event begins at 1 O'clock at the Trinity Reformed Church of Christ at 230 E. 7th Street in Bloomsburg.

Boil Water

A boil water advisory has been issued for the Beech Mountain Lakes development in Butler Township near Hazleton. The company which runs the water system said a water main break is the reason for the advisory. A boil water advisory is usually in effect for an estimated 48 hours.

Surveillance Video

State Police are still searching for two men wanted in connection with the robbery of a Turkey Hill convenience store manager as she tried to put a deposit in a bank near Hazleton. State Police say the pair set up barrels and cones outside a branch of the PNC Bank... forcing customers to get out of their cars... making them a prime target for an attack. Video surveillance show the suspect approaching the woman... using a pellet gun to shoot her... then taking the money bag. If you have information about the November 20th robbery call state police at Hazleton.

WHLM Sports

High School Football

In State Playoff Semifinals Friday night, Southern Columbia rolled over Penn's Manor 37-6. Southern goes on to face Clariton next Friday in the State Final. You can catch that game on the WHLM stations and here on WHLM.com.

Bloomsburg University

It's a busy weekend of college basketball at the Nelson Field House. Friday night the Huskies faced Slippery Rock. The Women's team won their game 86-67. The Men won their match as well 62-58. The Huskies face Mercyhurst Saturday afternoon.

You can hear all the details from Friday's local action in the WHLM Friday Night Update:

NFL Football

In the NFL Thursday night... the Pittsburgh Steelers getting by the Cleveland Browns 14 to 3.

That three to five inches of snow forecast for Columbia and Montour County didn't materialize overnight. The National Weather Service coming up a bit short. However, to our east... there was more snow on the ground. PennDOT crews were out overnight taking care of slippery roads in the region... with snow and ice forming on roads... mainly in southern Columbia County. Meantime... spotty power outages are being reported by PPL throughout their service area... including a hundred or so subscribers in Main, Catawissa and Madison Townships.

Fatal Folo

We now know the name of a woman killed last night in a traffic accident in Locust Township. Police Chief Allen Breach telling us 18 – year old Eleni Bennett of Mountain Road, Shamokin... in the overlook section of Ralpho Township... died when her foreign compact slammed into a PennDOT snow plow near on Route 487 near Rohrbach's Farm Market. Ms. Bennett died at the scene. Icy roads may have been a contributing factor. Chief Breach says the investigation is continuing.

Sandusky

Ex-Penn State assistant football coach Jerry Sandusky was arrested and arraigned Wednesday on new sex abuse charges brought by two new accusers.

One of the men claims Sandusky molested him numerous times in a basement bedroom. The claims bring the number of Sandusky's alleged victims to 10 and he now faces more than 50 charges stemming from accusations he molested boys for years on Penn State property... in his home and elsewhere.

Shickshinny Meeting

What does the borough of Shickshinny want to be in the future. The place was devastated by September flooding... and there is a meeting Thursday evening night designed to get ideas from residents. The session is hosted by FEMA and the state of Pennsylvania... and is being chaired by the Reverend Terry Hughes... who tells me the flood plain has changed greatly. Thursday evening meeting is scheduled for 6:30 at the Northwest High School on Thorn Hill Road.

Husky Laundromat Fire

Authorities originally thought they had a major fire late Wednesday afternoon at the Husky Corners Laundromat on East Street... near Main in Bloomsburg. However, it was a dryer which caught fire... destroying the clothes inside. Bloomsburg Fire Chief Bob Rupp said damage was confined to a dryer.

Pot Operation

A South Center Township man is in the Columbia County Jail after being busted for allegedly growing marijuana at his apartment in the 42 – hundred block of Old Berwick Road. The Press – Enterprise is reporting in Thursday's edition that 33 – year old Jacob Lee Howell's the pot growing operation was discovered by a neighbor. Police seizing an estimated 130 plants. Howell telling police he sold the pot to make ends meet... since he didn't have a job.

School of Excellence

Bloomsburg Memorial Elementary School is just one of five elementary schools in the state to be named a National Blue Ribbon School. The 431 students were recognized for the achievement during an assembly Wednesday. Principal Ryan Moran says it's not only high test scores which made a difference... it's the people. Overall... 14 schools in Pennsylvania... including Bloomsburg Memorial... were the only schools to receive the national award.

Saturday Movies

The Bloomsburg Kiwanis is providing a holiday experience for kids in the area this weekend. The organization's Mary Ann Foglesanger says kids will have their choice of two different pictures which carry a PG Rating. The doors to the Cinema Center on Route 11 opens at 8:30... with the movies getting underway around 9 O'clock.

Hazleton Council

The Hazleton City Council has approved a second reading of their proposed $7.7-million dollar budget. That happened during a long meeting Wednesday night... but they still haven't voted final approval of the proposal. The big sticking point is trying to establish a real estate tax rate for 2012.... with property owners possibly facing a 14% tax increase. Council must have the budget in place.. with a tax rate.. by the end of the year.

Barletta / Post Office

If you recall earlier this week... the US Postal Service said it was consolidating operations in order to avoid bankruptcy... but now two Congressmen from the region are fighting the proposal. Lou Barletta... who represents Columbia County.... and Tom Marino from the 10th district... have fired off a letter to the postal service supporting the continuing operations at the Scranton and Williamsport processing and distribution facilities. Barletta and Marino cited the impact on constituents who rely on the Postal Service to pay their bills and deliver mail-order prescriptions. No response from the postal service.. yet... but any changes won't happen until spring.

FEMA Deadline

If you or your business suffered damage from either Hurricane Irene or Tropical Storm Lee... you have a week to apply for the reimbursement of losses through the Federal Emergency Management Agency. A FEMA spokesperson says folks living in a 29 county area of central and eastern Pennsylvania... including residents of Columbia and Montour counties are eligible for disaster aid. Simply call 1 – 800 – 621 – 3362 to apply and get your FEMA number.

WHLM Sports

BU Basketball

The Bloomsburg University men's basketball team has won 7 straight games. That streak will be challenged by two strong opponents this weekend at the Nelson Field House. Friday night the Huskies play Slippery Rock and Saturday afternoon they go against Mercyhurst. Those two teams have a combined record of 9 and 3. Huskies coach John Sanow says it's important that his team finishes strong before the pre-holiday break. Friday night's game against Slippery Rock will be preceded by the women's game at 5:30. You can catch the action starting with the pregame show at 5:10 on News Radio 930, 94.7, 104.3, Berwick's 1280, as well as www.whlm.com.

Bloomsburg firemen were called to the Husky Corner's laundromat on East Street... near Main Wednesday afternoon. The alarm went in around 3:45 PM after someone discovered a clothes dryer on fire... so says Fire Chief Bob Rupp. Fire apparatus was sent to the scene, but merely for ventilating the heavy smoke from the laundromat portion of the building.

Sandusky Charges

Ex-Penn State assistant football coach Jerry Sandusky was arrested and arraigned Wednesday on new sex abuse charges brought by two new accusers. One of the men claims Sandusky molested him numerous times in a basement bedroom. The claims bring the number of Sandusky's alleged victims to 10 and he now faces more than 50 charges stemming from accusations he molested boys for years on Penn State property... in his home and elsewhere.

Home Invasion Arrest

A Penn State Schuylkill student has been arrested in connection with a weekend home invasion where three other students were beaten and robbed. Police say 18 – year old Christopher Cheese of Philadelphia was among a six people who were allegedly involved in the beatings in off – campus housing. Three of the students had to be life flighted to an Allentown hospital. Meantime... an arrest warrant has been issued for a second student.

Public Safety Firing

Northumberland County has a new “acting” director of Public Safety. Jerome Alex replaces Steve Reiner... who was told Tuesday morning he was fired. Reiner's “Box Walk” comes only two months after he was appointed as the permanent director of the department. He calls his firing nothing more than political on the part of commissioners Vinny Clausi and Merle Phillips. However, the county says it wants to move in a new direction.

Fabridam Repair

It may be a short boating and recreation season on the Susquehanna River near Sunbury this coming summer. State DNR officials say several bags of the Fabridam will be deflated around mid – August so heavy equipment can be brought in and the repair work can begin. When inflated... the dam forms Lake Augusta... providing summer recreation to thousands of people. The repair should take about 6 weeks to complete.

The Bloomsburg Town Council is running short on time to hire a town administrator. Current administrator Carol Mas plans to retire next month.... and a replacement has yet to be found. The first round of candidates to be interviewed weren't up to snuff... but Mayor Dan Knorr says another round of interviews will be held this week. Once a replacement is found... Ms. Mas has worked out a deal with town council to stay around as a consultant... in order to bring her replacement up to speed.

Second Student

A second Bloomsburg University student... accused of assaulting a fellow student during homecoming weekend... is trying to work out a deal with the school. The Press – Enterprise is reporting in the Wednesday edition... lawyers for 20 – year old Nicole Bruce of Clifford are trying to keep her in school for the rest of the semester... have her take her finals... and not return to the BU campus. That is similar to the deal reached last week with BU student Lauren McGinley who is also facing charges in the same case. Bruce, McGinley and 20 – year old Alexis Weber of Delaware are still scheduled for a hearing in District Court later this month.

Community Dinner

A couple of hundred people are expected at the Caldwell Consistory Sunday for the 2nd annual Community Church Dinner. Janis Labour one of the organizers of the event... says all are welcome. Tickets for the Community Church dinner are free... and available at the WHLM Studios at 124 East Main Street in Bloomsburg... as well as the AGAPE Center on 7th Street.

Shickshinny Meeting

What is the future of Shickshinny... in Luzerne County... following flooding from Tropical Storm Lee three months ago. That's the basis of a meeting tomorrow night by the the Shickshinny Long – Term Community Recovery team. The session is set up by FEMA and the state. The meeting will be held at the Northwest Area High School... starting Thursday night at 6:30.

Sandusky Allegations

More allegations against former Penn State defensive coordinator Jerry Sandusky... busted a month ago for allegedly molesting young men. Now... a 19 – year old man has filed a complaint with state police alleging he was a victim of Sandusky's abuse while on the Penn State campus back in 2004. No comment... yet... from Sandusky's attorney.

Wilkes – Barre Twp Chief

The Wilkes – Barre Township fire chief... in Luzerne County has been busted for allegedly stealing more than $11,000 dollars from the fire company. John Paul Yuknavich was arrested as he left the Luzerne County Courthouse after a hearing dealing with a protection from abuse order. Authorities say he used the Department's credit card... spending $3,700 at a mass retailer. Yuknavich was jailed on $15,000 bond and later released.

Pocono Downs

The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board has levied an $80,000 fine against the operator of the Mohegan Sun Casino at Pocono Downs... in Luzerne County. It stems from allowing three people under the age of 21 to gamble in October of last year... and January of 2011. One of the incidents involved a person who was served alcohol. This is the second time Mohegan Sun has been fined. Back in 2009 the company paid the board $47,000 for three underage gaming incidents.

Hazleton Burglary

Hazleton Police investigating the break in of a home in the 3 – hundred block of East Chestnut Street. It happened sometime over the weekend. Police say an inventory of was was taken is still being compiled.

WHLM Sports

Southern Columbia / Penns Manor

It has been a record setting season for the Penns Manor football team... Southern Columbia's opponent in Friday's Class A state semifinal. The Comets won the school's first district championship and the first state playoff game. Friday's Penns Manor-Southern Columbia game will be played at Central Mountain High School in Mill Hall, near Lock Haven. You can catch the action on Classic Rock 103.5 starting with the pregame show at 6:30. Friday night's other semifinal between Clairton and Sharpsville will be played at Slippery Rock University.

BU Wrestling

The Bloomsburg University wrestling team will compete in the PSAC championships this Saturday. That tournament begins at 9 A.M. at Mercyhurst College in Erie.

Bloomsburg Town Council members are pretty much in agreement on a proposed $4.3 – million budget for the 2012 fiscal year. Following a budget work session at Town Hall last night... Mayor Dan Knorr says he's happy with the proposal. The proposal calls for the addition of a police and code enforcement officer... without a property tax increase. Council votes on the proposal December 21st.

Biker Crash

A Bloomsburg man is recovering from injuries received late Monday afternoon when his motorcycle was struck by a car on Route 11 in Montour Township. The Press – Enterprise is reporting in Tuesday's edition... 48 – year old Kenneth Green had an apparent malfunctioning electrical system on his bike. He drifted into the center lane... apparently to turn left into a parking lot.... when his motorcycle was hit by a car driven by a Middleburg man. Green sustained a broken leg in the accident.

Sunday Hunting

A compromise may be in the works in Harrisburg dealing with a proposal to allow Sunday hunting across the state... as well as in Columbia and Montour Counties. State Representative Garth Everett of neighboring Lycoming County says the compromise would allow private landowners to opt – into Sunday hunting… and allow the DNR to take state lands out of the hunting equation.

Trial

He'll probably be going away for a long time. Tyrek Smith... arrested in the shooting death of Abdul Shabazz at a West Hazleton home earlier this year... has pleaded guilty to robbery. He remains on trial at the Luzerne County Courthouse... along with his two cousins... in the murder of Shabazz who allegedly was delivering a package of marijuana at the time of his death.

Grand Jury

Those subpoenaed documents dealing with the proposed re-development of the Sterling Hotel in Wilkes – Barre.... are now in the hands of a grand jury. Late last week... the grand jury asked for the documents... but they didn't say why they wanted them. Now it's believed the hotel's owner... CityVest... is being investigated as to how it spent $6 million dollars given to it by Luzerne County.

LCCC

Luzerne County Community College in Nanticoke want to higher three new deans. That... after the Middle States Commission on Higher Education said they want to be sure the school is meeting commission standards. College President Thomas Leary says he and several others serve dual roles. However, that isn't sitting well with the commission... so the school has launched a national search for the deans.

Pa Licenses

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation has unveiled a new security hologram that makes it easier to spot fake drivers' licenses and identification cards. The new hologram suppresses the "rainbow" colors normally associated with holographic images. The result is a hologram that appears to switch between white and black as the image is moved. Pennsylvania is the first state in the nation to use this enhanced security feature.

WHLM Sports

Southern Columbia

The Southern Columbia football team will be making the school's 14th appearance in the Class A state semifinals when the Tigers play Penns Manor Friday night at Central Mountain High School in Mill Hall. Friday's game kicks off at 7 O'clock. You can hear it on Class Rock 103.5 starting with the pregame show at 6:30.

BU Basketball

Bloomsburg University's senior point guard Trevon Johnson is the PSAC Eastern Division athlete of the week. Johnson averaged over 11 points and 7 assists in three Husky wins. Bloomsburg will take a 7 and one record into two weekend home games-Friday night against Slippery Rock and Saturday afternoon against Mercyhurst.

Monday Night Football

In the NFL last night... the San Diego Chargers defeated the Jacksonville Jaguars 38 to 14.

A Bloomsburg University student will return to classes after the school reversed its decision to expel her. Initially, 20 – year old Lauren McGinley of Wilkes – Barre was kicked out of school after she was accused of assaulting a fellow student during homecoming weekend. McGinley sued the school last week... alleging the school's disciplinary tribunal denied her a fair hearing. However, the issue was resolved during a hearing before a US District Judge. Meantime... McGinley still faces a preliminary hearing on assault and harassment charges later this month.

Kopitsky Update

That 27 – year old Montour County woman... burned last week in a fire at her home... remains in the burn unit of the Lehigh Valley Medical Center in Allentown. A family member tells us Elizabeth Kopitsky remains in critical condition... and at last check was in a medically induced coma. Authorities says Ms. Kopitsky was critically burned when apparently trying to set fire to a pile of leaves at the family home on Grovania Drive... and accidentally spilled gasoline on her hands and arms. When she lit a match... fumes from the gas caught her nylon coat on fire... producing second and third degree burns over 90% of her body.

Salvation Army

It could be a rough Christmas for folks around Columbia County if it wasn't for the Salvation Army Red Kettle drive. You see volunteers at entrances to retail stores in the area... ringing the bell... trying to get folks to part with some loose change. Lt. Kevin Polito from the Berwick Chapter telling us there are red kettles throughout Berwick and Bloomsburg... as well as the Wal – Mart in Buckhorn and inside the Columbia Mall.

John Mica / Floods

Over the past month or so... several congressmen with a lot of clout have visited Bloomsburg at the behest of freshman congressman Lou Barletta. The latest person to tour the area was central Florida congressman John Mica... the head of the Transportation and Infrastructure committee who oversees the US Army Corps of Engineers. Congressman Mica says September's flooding is not a new situation.

Mica's visit to Bloomsburg came on the heels of a stop by House Speaker John Boehner of Ohio... who got a first hand look at the destruction of the September floods.

Hit and Run

Bloomsburg Police tell us they're on the lookout for... what is believe to be a Mazda, bluish / gray in color. Its driver wanted for a hit and run which took place early Saturday morning on East 3rd street... between East and Catherine Streets. The car colliding with a red Ford Explorer. The Mazda should be pretty easy to spot since it's believe to have significant damage on the right side. If you have information call Bloomsburg Police.

Driver Hurt

An 85 – year old driver avoided striking a deer... but severely damaged her car in the process. State Police at Bloomsburg tells us that Lena Harps of Benton was southbound on Route 487 in Sugarloaf Township over the weekend when a deer jumped into her path. Her Pontiac Vibe went off the road and overturned. Ms. Harps was taken to Geisinger Medical Center for treatment of injuries.

Hazleton Taxes

If you live in the city of Hazleton... it appears you're going to be faced with at least a 14% property tax hike next year. That word from Mayor Joseph Yannuzzi. In essence... if you have a home assessed at $100,000... you'll be faced with an estimated $40.00 increase. The reason.. rising expenses to operate the city... and decking revenue.

Murder Trial

Jury selection is expected to begin Monday in Wilkes – Barre for three men in connection with the death of a Hazleton man a year ago. Izel and Isiah Garrett... and their cousin.. Tyrek Smith... are charged with the death of 30 – year old Abdul Shabazz who was shot an killed while delivering marijuana to a house at 216 West Third Street. All three have accused each other of firing the fatal shot that killed Shabazz.

Williamsport Shooting

Police in Williamsport... in neighboring Lycoming County... still don't have a suspect in the shooting of a convenience store clerk at the start of the weekend. Now... the Williamsport store owner is offering a reward for information leading to the arrest of the person who robbed his store and shot his wife. The shooting happened when the bandit demanded cash from the register... and she didn't comply. The unidentified woman is in stable condition.

You can catch Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble’s latest production today. “Holiday Memories” is open now through the end of the month. For ticket information go to BTE’s website…there’s a link under our partners at whlm dot com.

And this is the last weekend to view all of the decorated trees at BTE’s Treefest happening at the Caldwell Consistory.

The Berwick Jaycees present the annual Christmas Boulevard on Market Street in Berwick. The lighted, animated, and musical display is open from 6:00 to 10:00 pm.

Mission Mall is happening at St. John’s Lutheran Church from noon to 3:00 PM. If you can’t make it out to the alternative gift giving fair this week, they’ll be set up again next Sunday.

The Covered Bridges Association invites you to take a hayride with Santa today from 1:00 to 3:00 PM at the Twin Bridges. Santa will arrive at 2:00 pm and there will be baked goods, hot chocolate, coffee, cider, and ham and bean soup. You can also purchase Covered Bridge wine glasses.

The Whistle Stop Train Show is happening today at Woodward Fire Hall on Route 220 in Williamsport from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm.

WHLM Sports

In High School Football State Playoffs, Friday night, Southern Columbia came back from a second quarter defecit to trounce Pious X 55-25.

In College Basketball on Saturday the BU Huskies were on the road at IUP. The Women lost their game 84-79. The Men beat IUP in a close match that went down to the wire 66-64. You can hear all the details from Saturday's games in the WHLM Husky Post Game Report:

Bloomsburg High School is hosting a craft fair today from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.

The Children’s Museum in Bloomsburg invites you kids out for Cardinals and Snowflakes day today. Museum hours are 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Lightstreet United Methodist Church will host a coat, clothing, and blanket giveaway today from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. They will have hot soup and sandwiches too.

Katy’s Church will serve a hungry hunters lunch today from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm at the corner of Wolf Hllow Road and Katy’s Church Road in Madison Township.

Bloomsburg University presents “Carols by Candlelight” this evening at 7:30 at First Presbyterian Church on Market Street in Bloomsburg.

You can catch Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble’s latest production today and tomorrow. “Holiday Memories” is open now through the end of the month. For ticket information go to BTE’s website…there’s a link under our partners.

And this is the last weekend to view all of the decorated trees at BTE’s Treefest happening at the Caldwell Consistory.

The Berwick Jaycees present the annual Christmas Boulevard on Market Street in Berwick. The lighted, animated, and musical display is open from 6:00 to 10:00 pm.

Mission Mall is happening at St. John’s Lutheran Church tomorrow from noon to 3:00 PM. If you can’t make it out to the alternative gift giving fair this week, they’ll be set up again next Sunday.

The Covered Bridges Association invites you to take a hayride with Santa tomorrow from 1:00 to 3:00 PM at the Twin Bridges. Santa will arrive at 2:00 pm and there will be baked goods, hot chocolate, coffee, cider, and ham and bean soup. You can also purchase Covered Bridge wine glasses.

The Whistle Stop Train Show is happening tomorrow at Woodward Fire Hall on Route 220 in Williamsport from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm.

WHLM Sports

In High School Football State Playoffs, Friday night, Southern Columbia came back from a second quarter defecit to trounce Pious X 55-25.

In College Basketball on Saturday the BU Huskies were on the road at IUP. The Women lost their game 84-79. The Men beat IUP in a close match that went down to the wire 66-64. You can hear all the details from Saturday's games in the WHLM Husky Post Game Report:

Police as well as the Columbia County District attorney are still trying to nail down the loose ends of a murder/suicide in Espy last night. D-A Gary Norton telling WHLM News.... it appears 50 – year old Michele Musselman was called to their home in the 24 – hundred block of Old Berwick Road. When she arrived around 7 O'clock last night.... estranged husband Todd Musselman... using a handgun... shot Michele in the head.Norton says Todd then turned the gun on himself.Both were found dead by one of Todd Musselman's co-workers around 11:45 last night.Norton and state police say the investigation is continuing.

Woman Burned

A 27 – year old Montour Township woman was Life – flighted to the Lehigh Valley Medical Center late Thursday afternoon after her clothes caught fire. The Press – Enterprise is reporting in Friday's edition that Elizabeth Kopitsky may have been trying to burn a pile of leaves at the family home on Grovania Drive... and accidentally spilled gasoline on her hands and arms. When Ms. Kopitsky lit a match... the fumes from the gas caught fire producing second and three degree burns over 90 % of her body.

BU Wrestler

A Bloomsburg University wrestler has been cleared of rape charges following an incident at a fraternity party last summer on Iron Street. The Press – Enterprise is reporting in Friday's edition... that charges against 22 – year old Richard Perry were dismissed by President Judge Tom James saying there was insufficient evidence. The victim testifying that she had not objected to the advances of Perry.

Salvation Army

You see them every year at this time outside the doors of major retailers. The Salvation Army bell ringers... dressed in red... seeking loose change from folks passing through the door. Lt. Kevin Polito of the Berwick Salvation Army says his group is facing the same problems as other non – profit organizations in the area. Not enough money... and a lot of people to serve. With bell ringers and red kettles from Berwick to Bloomsburg... and to Buckhorn... Lt. Polito hopes to raise enough money to serve families and their kids looking for help from the Salvation Army.

Fine

The federal government has slapped Diakon Hospice Saint John with a fine of 10.5 - million dollars. Diakon has a hospice facility in Hazleton. The fine follows word that the company's facilities in Pennsylvania received improper Medicare and Medicaid payments.

Luzerne Budget

Luzerne County Commissioners say they'll unveil their 2012 proposed budget Friday during a meeting in Wilkes – Barre. Overall... proposed spending is pegged at 123 – million dollars.... that's down 2 – million from the current spending plan. No word as to how it will affect an average taxpayer's pocketbook.

Sterling Hotel

Luzerne County officials will be busy this weekend. A federal grand jury has asked the county to provide all documents related to the Sterling Hotel project by Monday morning. Now... Luzerne County officials say they don't know which part of the project is under investigation. The seven story hotel has been vacant for years... and has become an eyesore after a non – profit corporation known as CityVest ran out of money earmarked to restore the property.

PSU

Penn State University officials say they will donate 1-and-a half – million dollars in Big Ten bowl revenue to a pair of sex-crime advocacy organizations. That comes in the wake of the Jerry Sandusky sex scandal which broke a month ago. The pledge came from University President Rod Erickson.The money from bowl games usually goes to the athletic department... but this time the money is earmarked to the Pennsylvania Coalition Against Rape and the National Sexual Violence Resource Center.

Train Show

There is something about Christmas and toy trains. And with the holiday season comes one of the largest train shows in Central Pennsylvania this Sunday in neighboring Lycoming County. Specifically at the Woodward Fire Hall on Route 220 near Williamsport. Organizer Jim Stabley says more than a hundred exhibitor's will be on hand.

WHLM Sports

In High School Football State Playoffs, Friday night, Southern Columbia came back from a second quarter defecit to trounce Pious X 55-25. You can hear all the details with Jim Doyle in the WHLM Friday Night Football Update:

President Obama spent part of his Wednesday in northeastern Pennsylvania. It was a campaign – style rally at the Scranton High School where he spoke to a standing – room – only crowd. He pushed his jobs bill... as well as urging congress to to extend the payroll tax cut. Mr. Obama said if the cut isn't extended... it would cost the average taxpayer $1,000 next year and deal a serious blow to the nation's recovery. After leaving Scranton... Mr. Obama winged his way to New York City to attend three separate fund – raising events.

Blood Donors

This is the time of year when blood supplies across the region are at a historic low... and that could be a real problem if an emergency arises. Deanna Hollenbach of the Danville Chapter of the American Red Cross says folks can donate blood every 56 days. To find out where there's a blood drive near you... just click on the community calendar page here on our website.

Mifflinville Tree

A 74 – tall Norway spruce now dominates Rockefeller Center in New York City... with its origins rooted deep in Mifflinville. The lights were turned on last night in front of thousands of people... and a live, national TV audience. The tree... from the Keller family property in Mifflinville was taken down last month... then trucked to “The Big Apple” where it was decorated with an estimated 30,000 lights. That comes out to 5 miles worth. The big spruce will remain lit and on display until January 7th. Then the tree will be turned into mulch which will be distributed to New York City area charities.

Sandusky Suit

A lawsuit has been filed against former Penn State football Defensive coordinator Jerry Sandusky by a man... now 29... alleging Sandusky sexually assaulted him more than a hundred times. The plaintiff... identified only as John Doe... says Sandusky threatened to harm his family to keep him quiet. The lawsuit claims Sandusky abused the boy from 1992 to 1996 at the coach's home... in a Penn State locker room and on trips to Philadelphia. Also named in the suit is the university... and the Second Mile charity which Sandusky founded.

Hearings

Two Penn State administrators accused of lying to a grand jury will wait a little longer before receiving their day in court. Hearings were delayed for Athletic Director Tim Curley and former Vice-President Gary Schultz. Curley is currently on administrative leave, while Schultz retired since the Sandusky abuse scandal broke. Preliminary hearings for Curley and Schultz have been rescheduled for December 16th in Harrisburg. Sandusky is scheduled to appear in Centre County court on December 13th.

Robert Powell

Kids for Cash figure Robert Powell won't be reporting to a Florida Prison Camp in Pensacola as scheduled. Now... the 52 – year old Powell will remain free until the end of December. The reason... Powell is attending to family matters.... and his wife is being treated for cancer. Powell could spend up to 5 and a half years in prison for giving an estimated three – quarters of a million dollars to convicted judges Mark Ciavarella and Michael Conahan.

FEMA

Those of us who live in Columbia and Montour... as well as two dozen other counties in eastern Pennsylvania.... and who have losses from Hurricane Irene or Tropical Storm Lee... have just two weeks left to apply for disaster assistance. The registration deadline is December 14th. The deadline to submit a disaster loan application to the Small Business Administration is also the 14th. FEMA's toll free number is 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). Operators take calls seven days a week from 7 AM to 10 PM.

BU Program

The Bloomsburg University Council of Trustees has approved a new major. The Bachelor of Applied Science in Technical Leadership was given the green light during their quarterly meeting Wednesday. The program, the first of its kind in the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education and only the second in the commonwealth. The proposed program will be submitted to the Board of Governors for final approval... possibly as early next month for consideration at their January 2012 meeting.

Hazleton Fire

The State Police Fire Marshal is trying to figure out how a kitchen fire erupted early Wednesday morning... forcing nine people from a Hazleton home. The fire broke out in the kitchen... and the nine people were rescued by firemen. All were taken to a Hazleton hospital to be checked out.

Road Closed

The contractor involved in emergency roadwork says they'll need to shut down Route 154 near Forksville Thursday... in neighboring Sullivan County. PennDot's Rick Mason says the road will be closed starting at 8 AM... from the covered bridge at Forksville to the ranger station entrance for Worlds End State Park. Thursday's detour will follow Route 87 to Dushore and Route 220. Mason says any remaining work under this project will take place under without a detour.

WHLM Sports

The pass defense of the Southern Columbia football team will be severely challenged Friday night when the Tigers play Pius X in a Class A state quarterfinal. The Royals are led by sophomore quarterback A.J. Long who has thrown 43 touchdown passes this season. The Southern Columbia - Pius X game will be played Friday night at 7 O'clock at Nazareth High School. You can hear the game starting with the pregame show at 6:30 on News Radio 930, 94.7, 104.3, Berwick's 1280, as well as www.whlm.com.